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Explosion of Growth
As enrollment in the freshman class rises, so too has enrollment in introductory science classes.
From 2008 to 2009, the freshman class grew from 324 to 364, the largest class in PC's history. During the same time, the number of students enrolled in introductory science classes rose from 126 to 160.
"Biology, chemistry, and physics and computer science departments, although they are currently managing the increased student loads, are meeting to discuss the challenges posed by the current bulging science enrollments and 'what if' scenarios if enrollment continues to climb," said Charles E. Daniel Professor of Chemistry Dr. Ed Gouge.
More and more students are conducting research in the natural sciences as well. In fact, the chemistry department now requires independent laboratory-based research for the chemistry major. Plus, all six participants in the PC Summer Fellows program's first year were from the natural sciences. The number continues to grow: this past year, nine of the nineteen Summer Fellows conducted research in the natural sciences.
And the Summer Fellows' research gets recognized. Two chemistry students presented at the Southeastern Region of the American Chemical Society in Puerto Rico. A recent biology major presented her findings on Capitol Hill and another at a national research conference. Furthermore, physics students conduct research in the Space Weather Undergraduate Research Laboratory, established by a physics professor who recently received the prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Award. In its first year alone five students presented at two national conferences.
Over the past four years the biology, chemistry, and physics and computer science departments have increased their course offerings. All in an effort to keep up with the demand for PC's highly sought-after undergraduate science programs. Raise the torch to these programs by donating to the Campaign for Presbyterian College.